English phrase from drama scenes

What Does "that's just the tip of the iceberg" Mean?

Learn what "that's just the tip of the iceberg" means, when people say it, and how to use it naturally in English.

Intermediate
Neutral
Firm
Explain

and that's just the tip of the iceberg.

It means the visible problem is only a small part of something much larger.

From Help! I’m Falling In Love With My Rude CEO, Episode 24

When do people say this?

Scene Context

Someone says the current problem is only a small part of a much bigger issue.

Usage Scenario

Use this when warning that a situation is more serious than it appears. It is common in news, work, and argument contexts.

Better ways to say it

1
That’s just the tip of the iceberg.
2
This is only the tip of the iceberg.
3
There’s a lot more going on here.

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